We all know how scary car accidents can be. Whether the accident was your fault or someone else’s, they are almost always unexpected and very nerve-racking to be in. The never-ending questions almost immediately start running through your head, and the uncertainty of things can create a lot of stress for everyone involved. Injuries, property damage, and insurance deductibles only make things worse. One thing you might be wondering after the dust settles is whether or not you should seek out the help of a physical therapist for an injury you sustained.
After filing the police report and handling the claim with the insurance companies, your next priority should be making sure that every inch of YOU is okay. One of the most common injuries acquired during an accident is whiplash, and subsequently, the headaches and sore body that come with it. Sometimes these symptoms take a day or two to really show themselves, so it might be a good idea to stop by your local urgent care or make an appointment with your primary care doctor as soon as possible to have an examination completed to rule out a concussion or broken bones. Your doctor can also write you a prescription for physical therapy to work on decreasing your symptoms even further.
Working with a physical therapist after an accident can make a world of difference in your recovery. A physical therapist can enlist the help of various modalities that can speed up your healing process. They can utilize electrical stimulation and ice/heat therapy to help you relax your body and decrease the pain. They can also provide manual and massage therapy techniques to work on any tight or sore muscles you have. They can use compression therapy to help with your circulation and swelling. They can use laser therapy and ultrasound therapy to speed up tissue healing and alleviate pain on the cellular level. They can give you stretches to work on, maintain, and improve your range of motion. They can give you exercises to help with any weakness you might be feeling. They can work on your neuromuscular and vestibular re-education to help with any post-concussive symptoms you acquired. In short, they can make you feel better in so many ways. They are an excellent resource and a wonderful option for you.
If you have specific questions about the coverage of your physical therapy treatment for any injuries sustained in a car accident, we highly suggest talking to your health insurance company, your car insurance company, and potentially even an attorney that specializes in personal injury law. They would be your best resource for those questions. If you have a specific question about how we can help treat your pain and help you recover from your injuries, give our Foothill Ranch Phsyical Therapy location a call today to schedule an initial evaluation! We’d love to have you, and help you get back to feeling like your best self!